The Hot Seat (EP.5) | with Sophie Kristina James and Imre Bartha

Welcome to The Hot Seat, Slitherine's brand-new monthly appointment designed to bring you closer to the heart of the strategy and indie gaming industry.

Each month, Marco Minoli, our Director of Publishing, takes the lead, sitting down with influential guests from across the gaming landscape.
These aren't just interviews; they're open, insightful dialogues where we tackle the most pressing current issues and hot topics affecting the games you love and the industry that creates them.
For all dedicated tabletop and strategy wargame fans, you absolutely won't want to miss The Tabletop Corner.
This is your essential, quick yet immersive update on the latest and greatest tabletops and miniatures releasing in the wargaming world.

In the last episode of 2025, Slitherine is happy to welcome Sophie Kristina James and Imre Bartha.

Sophie Kristina James - Producer of Stronghold Crusader: Definitive Edition at Firefly Studios - isn't just managing schedules: she's shaping the vision of a modern RTS revival.
Her expertise bridges creative teams and technical production, ensuring every detail, from the siege mechanics to the updated visuals, enhances the player experience.

Imre Bartha, as Game Designer for Sudden Strike 5 at Kite Games, shares his love for tactical depth into crafting realistic, engaging battle scenarios.
His focus on unit diversity, mission flow, and terrain strategy gives players the feeling of commanding real armies in historically inspired combat.

Together, they exemplify the new generation of developers who balance nostalgia and innovation, breathing new life into strategy gaming.
Join us for candid conversations, expert perspectives, and a unique look behind the scenes, all designed to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for the world of strategy gaming.